Sharks circle Tonga with big offer

The Parramatta Eel’s chances of signing Willie Tonga have lengthened dramatically in recent days with the Cronulla Sharks weighing in with a massive bid for the centre that is believed to be in excess of $400K per season.

Sources indicate that the Eels are not willing to increase their bid for Tonga any further and club officials have admitted that the Sharks are now favourite for his signature.

Despite some reports suggesting Tonga has already signed, it’s understood the former North Queensland, Bulldogs and Eels centre is still weighing up his options but it appears to have come down to the Sharks and Eels.

While the Sharks have made the larger offer, the Eels are still hoping the lure of returning to his former club to play with brother Esi Tonga and close friend Reni Maitua might swing the decision their way.